Iowa Women's Foundation

Overview

The Iowa Women's Foundation (IWF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of Iowa's women and girls by focusing on economic self-sufficiency. Founded in 1994, it is the only statewide organization in Iowa working comprehensively towards this mission.

Mission

The IWF is committed to enhancing women's economic self-sufficiency through advocacy, research, education, collaboration, and grantmaking. It aims to create an environment where women and girls have the necessary resources—human, social, and financial—to succeed.

History

Established in November 1994, the IWF obtained its 501(c)(3) status in October 1995. Since its inception, it has awarded over $1.68 million in grants to numerous organizations across Iowa, impacting women and girls in all 99 counties.

Grantmaking

IWF awards grants to nonprofit organizations and grassroots groups that serve women and girls in Iowa. These grants focus primarily on addressing six key barriers to economic self-sufficiency:

• Employment: Programs supporting job search and career advancement.
• Childcare: Initiatives to increase access to affordable childcare.
• Housing: Assisting women experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity.
• Education & Training: Preparing women for the workforce or career advancement.
• Transportation: Helping women obtain reliable transportation.
• Mentorship: Encouraging leadership development among women and girls.

Grant applicants must address at least one of these barriers, and successful projects often advocate for systemic change, develop positive self-images, and promote equality.

Impact and Activities

IWF's efforts extend beyond grantmaking, including fostering partnerships across Iowa to identify and address barriers to economic self-sufficiency. The organization engages communities through research to understand the needs of women and girls, encouraging systemic and social change.

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteers are integral to the IWF's mission, participating in event services, community review panels, and statewide community efforts to support women and girls.

Recent Developments

The IWF continues to evolve, expanding its reach and impact through strategic partnerships and innovative grant programs aimed at long-term change for Iowa's women and girls.

[1] https://iawf.org/about/ [2] https://iawf.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/2023-Grant-Guidelines-for-2024-with-Sample-App.pdf [3] https://www.iowahungersummit.org/en/the_iowa_hunger_directory/organizations_fighting_hunger/?action=detail&memberID=52016 [4] https://iawf.org/grantmaking/core-grants/ [5] https://iawf.org/get-involved/